Bt maize for small scale farmers: a case study

The role of biotechnology in small-holder agricultural systems has been the subject of much debate in South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region as a whole.

Maize is South Africa's staple field crop. However, production is hampered by a number of factors, one of the most significant being stalk boring insects which, depending on the severity of the infestation, may reduce yields by 10 to 45%. Furthermore, infested corn can cause adverse medical problems amongst people who consume the contaminated product. Genetically modified (GM) white maize was approved for commercial production in South Africa in 1998 with the aim of tackling this issue and improving agricultural productivity, quality and returns.

To educate and inform small-scale farmers and to give them the opportunity to evaluate GM white maize for themselves, six demonstration plots were planted at strategic locations across the country. This paper presents the results obtained from these six demonstration plots, finding that:

• in all plots it was found that GM maize gave higher yields and had less stalk borer damage than the comparable non GM variety
• GM white maize can be beneficial to small scale farmers located in areas where maize stalk borer is a major production factor. However, it is important that the authorities provide an effective extension service and financial support in order that the full potential of GM white maize can be experienced
• the adoption of Bt maize will, the authors assert, play a key role in achieving increased food security in Africa – overall, significant benefits including yield increases, reduced pesticide usage and lower mycotoxin levels.